Bouquet

Week 21

Bouquet

May 22, 2011

It feels like it's been a while since I included an image from the weddings I am privileged to photograph. This one, as you can see is of one of the most anticipated moments during the reception... the bouquet toss. I love seeing this tradition play out, and it's always interesting to see how those single ladies, (some eager - some coerced) going on that dance floor and waiting for fate to drop that sign of future matrimony into their hands, will react. Some stand there out of obligation. Others jump at the chance, literally, to jockey for the best position and use every ounce of athleticism they possess to capture the prize.

The tradition is fun, and though not one I take much stock in for it's ability to predict or influence a girls chance at marriage any sooner than otherwise would come their way, is simply part of the celebration of the new bride and groom, and a way of enjoying the friendships that surround the marriage.

What it makes me think about is our desire for connection. Marriage, that symbol and act of committing to one another in a forever partnership is a manifestation of that desire, and I'd say need, for relationship. Whether your views on it are faith based or purely secular, its hard to deny the deep longing that humans have for companionship. It's a need for someone that can be trusted with the darkest secrets, the silliest ideas, the toughest challenges and the evolving passions we have as we go through life.

So here's to celebrating that pursuit... may you catch a bouquet (or garter) when you have the chance :).

Image taken with Canon 5DMII, 24-70 2.8L lens, 1/500 sec @f2.8, ISO 400